Progress in the bio-economy is increasingly threatened by a lack of trained engineers and scientists. An „Innovative Training Network“ (ITN) funded by the European Union as part of the Horizon 2020 program aims to close the gaps in research training. Headed by Hector Marcelo Fernandez-Lahore, Professor of Biochemical Engineering, Jacobs University Bremen is involved in the interdisciplinary and international program. The project is funded with 505.000 Euro over a period of four years.

Bioeconomics is based on the efficient use of biological resources such as agricultural by-products, microorganisms, and animal cells in culture. It covers a large number of sectors such as pharmaceuticals, food, chemicals and energy. An innovative production method, continuous bioprocessing, is increasingly being used in pharmaceutical industry. „It is more environmentally friendly, less energy-intensive, and less costly than conventional methods of biomanufacturing,“ explains Prof. Fernadez-Lahore. However, it is also more technically demanding and requires specially trained personnel.
This is why an expert consortium consisting of nine industrial partners, eight universities, a research institution, a regulatory authority and a management consultancy has developed a special research and training program. As part of this Innovative Training Network (ITN), Jacobs University will train two PhD students who will deal with innovative bioprocesses in the pharmaceutical industry. „We want to help ensure that the bio-industry maintains its leading position in Europe,“ said Fernandez-Lahore.

About Jacobs University Bremen:

Studying in an international community. Obtaining a qualification to work on responsible tasks in a digitized and globalized society. Learning, researching and teaching across academic disciplines and countries. Strengthening people and markets with innovative solutions and advanced training programs. This is what Jacobs University Bremen stands for. Established as a private, English-medium campus university in Germany in 2001, it is continuously achieving top results in national and international university rankings. Its more than 1,400 students come from more than 100 countries with around 80% having relocated to Germany for their studies. Jacobs University’s research projects are funded by the German Research Foundation or the EU Research and Innovation program as well as by globally leading companies.
For more information: www.jacobs-university.de
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